SHA #1: Do you think self harm defines you ?

@ASilentObserver Hey 

I have been there !!! It's wonderful to see the focus on Self-Harm Awareness Week and providing support. Self-harm is undoubtedly a complex aspect of one's journey, and I agree that it doesn't define a person. It's crucial to recognize the multifaceted nature of individuals and emphasize their strengths and resilience. The question of whether self-harm defines someone is deeply personal, and the journey toward understanding and overcoming it is unique for each individual. Your thoughtful approach fosters empathy and encouragement for those facing these challenges🌟

@intuitiveHickory85 Thank you for sharing your insights about self-harm and its impact on our identities, hickory. You raised some important points about the complexity of this experience and the importance of acknowledging each person's unique journey. I agree that by focusing on strengths and resilience, we can work together towards healing and growth. How do you think we can best support those who may be struggling with self-harm?

@ASilentObserver Important components of offering support include acknowledging the complexity of each person's path and highlighting strengths and resilience. It's essential to provide a secure, judgment-free environment in order to help those who are battling with self-harm. A big impact may be made by promoting open communication, demonstrating empathy, and putting people in touch with experts. Which techniques or methods work best for you while helping others get through difficult times?

@ASilentObserver Selfharm does not define me, no. But it gives me the relief I need in a time of need (hard feelings mostly). I only self harm to manage myself and my feeling, which is the only thing that helps. Mostly bc of anxiety.

@TheMadHatterWasHere Thank you for opening up with us, theMad <3 It sounds like you are experiencing difficult emotions and are turning to self-harm as a way to cope. But  on one hand, it provides temporary relief from difficult emotions, but on the other hand, it can also have negative consequences. How do you weigh these different aspects? 

@ASilentObserver I honestly see no negative consequences. It's not like I cut too deep or anything. I can control myself when cutting. Yes, I get quite a few scars, but I can live with that. I am living with that.

@ASilentObserver

There was a time that I thought it did. It was a time of a lot of new problems and new ways I had to learn to live, so that thought was the easiest in the midst of it all. 

But it doesn't define me. It serves a purpose at the moment that you have to grow away from. Find other healthier ways to cope with your issues and let go of it. Not as easy as it sounds. And a part of it is accepting you might drift back to it even after a long time, which happened to me last year. And there's nothing wrong with that, you're not a failure if it happens - it can be like addiction that way. It's just finding your way back up again, like with any problem you face. 

I don't feel as positively about it as I might sound, but the logic is there. Emotions and logic kinda like to fight a lot. 

@OneErased Thank you Erased for opening up with us here. I agree and it makes sense, and I think you've  found some useful insights there. It sounds like you've grown to recognize that though it may have been helpful for a time, it isn't helpful anymore, and it's okay to move on from it. Even if you do end up returning to it, it's not a failure, but rather a part of your journey. How do you feel about that now that you've come to this realization?

@ASilentObserver

There was a time in my life when self harm was absolutely every ounce of my identity.  As I have healed over the years and learned better and more effective coping skills, I have let go of letting self harm identify me.  I am Kristy, a courageous, compassionate, colorful  and awesome woman, leading from my heart and trusting in God’s plan for me.  I no longer consider myself a self garner.

this was a great discussion question.  Thank you for reminding me to be who I am!

@Kristynsmama Thank you for sharing your powerful journey of growth and healing. We are all proud of you and here with you to support you in your progressive journey of healing and growth

@ASilentObserver no it brings out your inner strength 

@warmheartedgreyyson I am glad you feel this way warm and please feel free to share more with us. We are all here with you to listen to and to support. You are not alone in this. 

@ASilentObserver

Does my job or family or how much money I have define me? My hair or eye or skin colour or my sex or gender? Being part of the human race, a traumatized, traumatic and traumatizing society? Of course it does. It defines me as much as anything else. Is it all there is when it comes to defining me? Perhaps not, but are systems fair enough to allow equal distribution of wealth to everyone, allowing us to be there for each other and doing as much as it could? That's possibly the hardest no ever. Maybe in some abstract conceptual sense I'm not defined by it, but I think I deserve more then futilely grasping at straws in an attempt to keep them from breaking the camel's back of my life, don't you think?

@communicativePond1728 Thank you for opening up with us, Pond. I hear you. It feels to be grappling with complex questions about identity and what defines us. It's understandable that these reflections bring up difficult feelings. But please know you did well with acknowledging and sharing your thoughts with us. We are all here for you to support and listen to. <3